First Sunday of the Month invitation to the Spirit

We will light a candle at Mass on the first Sunday of the month to invite the Spirit to guide our communal discernment. As a symbol of our striving to a deeper commitment to diversity, the community chose the symbol of the Parol, a star-shaped latern displayed in homes in the Philippines, to be paired with the candle. The Parol is meant to serve as the guiding light and sign for Mary and Joseph and more importantly, Jesus, to come into the home, as the family is ready for them. The Parol represents the star of Bethlehem that guided the magi to the place where Jesus was born. The presence of the star reminds us that Jesus is Emmanuel--God with us. The prayer we will pray is below.

God of Life,

We light this candle inviting your Holy Spiritto reveal your ways among us,in the life of our parish and our neighborhood,in our city and our church.As members of the body of Christ your Son,we are called to solidarity with all people.

May your Spirit guide our prayer and our discussionsover these next few months.Ask us deeper questions, show us new dreams;help us to be true companions as we discover a new frontier of loving.

Give us hearts like yours:Make us brave and kind and inventive.Above all give us the grace we needTo follow the star of your love to The fullness of life.

ABOUT USSt. Leo practices a radical hospitality rooted in Ignatian spirituality and enriched by a Catholic Worker charism. We seek to be poor with the poor, and it is through the communal prayer of the people that we stay inspired and undeterred in our commitment to work with God to transform injustice. All are not only welcome but belong at the table.